Howard Tafua

Howard Mosese "Moe" Tafua of Eagle Mountain, Utah, passed away on October 2, 2025, surrounded by his wife and children. Born on March 30, 1974, in Pago Pago, American Samoa, Moe lived a life full of devotion-to his family, especially his wife and daughters, his faith, his work, and his passions. 
Moe lived in Laie, Hawaii for a few years when he was young, but he spent the majority of his life growing up in Westminster, California. He was a proud alumnus of Westminster High School, where he formed lifelong friendships that remained a cornerstone throughout his life. He was known for his physical strength, humor, loyalty, and the way that he drew people to him. His laughter, teasing, and unwavering "Fight On" spirit left a lasting impression on everyone he met, and to those who knew him best, he was more than a friend-he was family. 

Professionally, Moe built his life through hard work, skill, and dedication as a construction worker and project manager. His career took him across the country remodeling hotels, building home improvement stores, and laying the groundwork for building communities. In his trade, Moe mastered everything from framing and drywall to electrical and plumbing work. He also specialized in fiber optic installations, WiFi reception tower construction, demolition and cement work. Among some of his proudest accomplishments were building the roadwork and cement foundation for Pioneer Crossing Road in Utah County, managing large scale landscaping projects for the Daybreak community and major businesses throughout Utah. He even had a memorable opportunity to install a WiFi tower on the roof of his beloved USC campus-which was a highlight for him as a devoted Trojan football fan. 

At home, Moe's love was most evident in the kitchen-where cooking was his love language. He cooked from scratch with his heart. He loved to cook for family and friends. These occasions were often accompanied by music and always making happy memories. Part of his love of cooking, led him and his wife, Louellen to starting a successful family business, called Mojiboy'z that served the best cheesesteaks and bratwurst dogs around.

Moe was passionate about music and drumming. His love for Tahitian drumming led him to perform with Hitia O Te Ra in Orange County, California, under the guidance of his Uncle Alex Tekurio, as well as with the local Polynesian group Tagaloa in Salt Lake City. Whether onstage or at home, drumming was Moe's way of connecting to his roots and sharing his culture with others. 

Devoted to faith and community, Moe loved serving the members of his congregation in various callings and responsibilities. He served with his whole heart and always with a smile and a joke. He enjoyed volunteering at the Bishop's Storehouse and the Orange County Food Bank, ever eager to lend a helping hand to those in need. Above all, he held a deep and personal relationship with his Savior, Jesus Christ, which guided every part of his life. 

Moe is survived by his loving wife of twenty five years, Louellen; daughters, Tahiti and Tikoa; his parents, Lila and Lemapu Fanoga, and Howard S. Tafua; his siblings, Keola Cossio (Gabe), Toalo Passi(Des), Finau Tafua (Rachel), Tafolo Tafua (Malia), Patrick Tafua (Brenda), Mike Fanoga (Soana), Albert Fanoga (Angela) and many nieces, nephews, in-laws, Aunts, Uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his sister, Doreen Fanoga Nogueira. 

Funeral services will be conducted by Anderson & Sons Mortuary in American Fork, Utah. His funeral services will be held at Saddle Rock Stake Center, 2977 Saddle Rock Road, Eagle Mountain, Utah 84005. A public viewing will begin at 8:45am, with funeral services to follow. His burial will take place at Pony Express Memorial Cemetery at 4648 N. Eagle Mountain Blvd, Eagle Mountain, Utah 84005. Luncheon reception to follow the burial at the Saddle Rock Stake Center.

Howard "Moe" Tafua will be remembered for his humor, generosity, talent, and above all, his unconditional love for family and faith. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.